A bioactive, multifunctional ingredient with exceptional efficacy, proven by numerous clinical studies. It offers skin-enhancing benefits such as increased elasticity, reduced wrinkles, improved volume and reduced roughness.
Ectoin was discovered in 1985 as a self-defence and survival substance produced by microorganisms living in a salt lake in Wadi El Natrun (Egyptian desert). Ectoin belongs to the group of extremolytes, small stress-protective molecules that shield microorganisms and plants from harmful and extreme conditions in their habitats, such as salt lakes, hot springs, Arctic ice, the deep sea or deserts. The effects of ectoin have been studied in detail by numerous independent scientific
research groups and universities in Germany and around the world.
Ectoin’s properties are simple yet effective: the ingredient boosts the skin’s own defences by protecting and stabilising the skin’s cell membranes. This leads to less oxidative stress on the cells and reduced inflammatory reactions in the skin, as well as a significant increase in moisture content.
Clinical studies prove:
- Visible and long-term anti-ageing results with improvements in skin condition, such as increased elasticity, reduced wrinkles, improved volume and reduced roughness.
- Reduced TEWL (transepidermal water loss) and, at the same time, increased hydration, with the skin’s moisture retained for 7 days without reapplication. By repairing the skin barrier, the skin’s moisture content is restored and regulated, helping to smooth and plump the skin’s surface.
- A soothing effect on irritated and damaged skin due to its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which also support a healthy skin microbiome (ectoin is recognised in products for the treatment of atopic dermatitis or allergic skin conditions in both adults and children).
- Prevention of premature ageing and skin damage through 100% protection of the skin’s immune cells. The skin’s immune cells are known as Langerhans cells. In addition to the skin’s own antioxidant defences, these cells help protect the skin by recognising antigens and inducing antibody defence responses when the skin is exposed to free radicals. Ectoin provides comprehensive protection and prevention against premature deterioration of skin cells caused by urban pollution and blue light. It is the only anti-pollution active ingredient on the market that protects the skin against particles of all sizes, including harmful air pollution components, such as nanoparticles.